Κλέφτικο με Φασολάκια και Κιμά (Kleftiko me Fasolakia kai Kima)
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Greece with this hearty Green Bean and Beef Casserole, a perfect dish for any night!
Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius).
In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until it's translucent.
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the beef to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, which should take about 10-12 minutes.
Chop the tomatoes and add them to the skillet, stirring well to combine with the beef and onion mixture. Let it cook for another 5 minutes.
In a large baking dish, layer the green beans at the bottom. Pour the beef mixture on top of the green beans, spreading it out evenly.
Pour in 2 cups of water and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the bay leaf over the top.
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 1 hour.
After 1 hour, remove the foil and let it cook for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the top to become slightly crispy.
Once done, remove from the oven and let it sit for about 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley before plating.
4
- Add a layer of feta cheese on top during the last 10 minutes of baking for a tangy twist.
- Incorporate herbs like dill or thyme for an aromatic variation.
- Serve it with a side of tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
- For a richer flavor, use a mix of ground beef and lamb.
- Don't rush the browning of the beef, as this step adds depth to the flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or potatoes for added texture.
- fat: 20 grams
- protein: 30 grams
- calories: 450
- carbohydrates: 35 grams
This dish provides a balanced combination of protein from the beef, fiber from the green beans, and healthy fats from olive oil, making it a nutritious option for a hearty meal.
